The Tree of Life

﻿The Tree of Life

People from diverse nationalities, cultures, and races around the world have placed a high value on the coconut tree as a beneficial source of food and medicine. For centuries, people have acknowledged the importance of coconut as a medium of healing. Many consider the coconut palm as the “Tree of Life” because of its healing properties. Recently, these health claims have been supported by medical science. Health experts agree that coconut incorporated into one’s diet may bring noticeable health benefits. Weight loss, increased energy, and improved immune system are some of the many benefits of coconut consumption. Coconut water and oil are some of the coconut products that can be added to one’s food or eating regimen.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil, especially the ones made from fresh coconut meat, or non-copra materials has been proven to be beneficial. Non-copra oil called Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) is a more sanitary oil compared to the usual coconut oil. Lauric acid present in this type of coconut oil is classified as a medium-chain fatty acid, an essential substance in the formation of monolaurin in the human body. Monolaurin is the antiviral and antibacterial elements used by the body to destroy viruses like Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), herpes, influenza and other infections that may lead to illness.

People with digestive problems are advised by medical doctors to take VCO. Fat in VCO is easily absorbed without the aid of digestive enzymes. This process aids the digestive system, enabling it function properly. A fit digestive system is essential to maintain proper weight and enables the body to absorb the right vitamins and minerals.

In addition, coconut oil is used in hospitals as an important ingredient in baby formulas that are used to feed new-born babies. Fatty acids in coconut oil nourishes babies and aids them in their growth. They also serve as health booster that protects babies from virus and bacteria while their immune system is still weak.

Coconut water

Coconut water from young green coconut is low in calories, fat, cholesterol, and has a natural balance of sodium, potassium. magnesium, and calcium—making it a healthy drink. Electrolytes that aid in the restoration of nutrients is present in coconut water and may help severely dehydrated people. Drinking natural coconut water optimizes muscle performances and can eliminate muscle spasms because of high levels of potassium. It also boosts circulation, raises metabolism, and maintains the proper body temperature. Coconut water also helps prevent intestinal gas and aid in removing toxins because it balances acid levels and flushes toxins out. Diarrhea and headaches are some of the illness that can eliminated because of detoxification. Coconut water is considered by many as a natural stress buster because of its cooling and calming effects. Studies add that coconut water relieves burning sensations and restores emotional stability in menopausal women. Lastly, coconut water is also an excellent supplement for liver problems, hepatitis, and inflammation. Today, the coconut is appreciated and used by many people as an alternative treatment for illness and an amazing solution to many health problems. People can improve their health by maintaining an active lifestyle and adding healthy doses of coconut into their diet.